PUTRAJAYA: The rate of food poisoning cases in Malaysia has reduced by over 20% so far this year compared to the same period in 2024, says Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
The Health Minister said that only 204 food poisoning cases have been reported as of May 2025, compared to the total number of 707 cases reported in 2024,
"This encouraging trend shows a slight decrease of 23% in food poisoning cases compared to the same period last year.
"We will continue our efforts to educate the public on the steps they can take to prevent food poisoning and hope to further enhance public knowledge on food safety," he said in his speech at the Safe Food Expo here on Saturday (July 5).
He said the primary cause of food poisoning cases in the country was from bacterial infection such as E. coli and salmonella, commonly found in undercooked or unsanitary food.
Dzulkefly also said almost 2,000 more eateries have managed to obtain Clean and Safe Recognition (BeSS), increasing from 11,200 to 13,998 certified premises so far this year.
"We promise to further support this movement and other food related initiatives through policy decisions and food safety strategies that continue to be based on scientific knowledge, current technological developments and risk assessment," he said.
Dzulkefly also said plans to reduce excessive waiting times at government hospitals nationwide were in the final phases of development.
"The matter is currently being reviewed in detail through engagement sessions with other relevant ministries and agencies and is in its final phase of development.
"When it is ready, we will make an official announcement but for now we ask that the people give us time to be thorough in solving this key issue," he said in a press conference here on Saturday (July 5).
Dzulkefly declined to confirm whether long waiting times were caused by shortages in medical personnel.
